Ramadan Start 2026 in Mauritius

Ramadan Start marks the beginning of the holy month of fasting for Muslims, observed with prayers, reflection, and community spirit. The exact start date depends on the sighting of the moon, with special prayers held at mosques across Mauritius.

Ramadan Start: A Public Holiday?

Ramadan Start is not a public holiday in Mauritius; businesses, offices, and schools operate as usual, though the Muslim community begins observing the holy month with prayers and fasting.

Ramadan Start

Ramadan Start marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims in Mauritius, based on the Islamic calendar. Muslim immigrants, particularly those from India, brought the tradition of observing Ramadan to the island in the 19th century. As they settled in Mauritius, they preserved their religious practices, and over time, Ramadan became an important part of the island's cultural and religious life.

The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, a practice that connects the Mauritian Muslim community with Muslims around the world. Though not a public holiday, Ramadan Start holds deep spiritual meaning. It signals the beginning of a month dedicated to fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. The tradition has been passed down through generations, fostering a sense of unity and faith among Muslim families. Today, the observance of Ramadan is widely respected in the multicultural fabric of Mauritius, further enriching the island's respect for diverse religious calendars.

Observance of Ramadan Start in Mauritius

Ramadan Start is a significant day for Muslims in Mauritius, marking the beginning of a sacred month in the Islamic calendar. Once the crescent moon is sighted, confirming the start of Ramadan, an announcement is made by religious authorities. The community then prepares for the first day of fasting. The evening before the first fast is filled with prayers at mosques, and families gather to share a meal, setting a tone of devotion and togetherness for the month ahead.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. The start of Ramadan brings a shift in daily life, with early morning meals (suhoor) before dawn and evening meals (iftar) to break the fast. Mosques become central places of worship and community interaction, especially for Taraweeh prayers held each night. While Ramadan Start is not a public holiday, its importance is widely recognized, and many workplaces show flexibility to accommodate those observing the fast.

The importance of Ramadan Start goes far beyond fasting. It is a time of spiritual renewal, reflection, and increased charitable acts. Muslims focus on deepening their connection with God, practicing self-discipline, and supporting those in need. Within Mauritius' multicultural society, the beginning of Ramadan according to the Islamic calendar is also a moment of mutual respect and understanding. It enhances the island's spirit of unity and tolerance, fostering shared values that transcend cultural and religious lines.

Ramadan Start Observances